Original 25th Infantry Division "Tropic Lightning" Patch | Cut Edge
Description
Lightning strikes in the jungle.
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Unit History: Formed in Hawaii, the 25th Infantry Division saw heavy combat in the Pacific during WWII and later became one of the most famous units of the Vietnam War (headquartered at Cu Chi). Their gritty combat experience in Vietnam was immortalized in Oliver Stone's Academy Award-winning film Platoon.
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Design: The patch features a striking yellow lightning bolt centered on a red taro leaf (a plant native to Hawaii).
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Vintage Construction: This piece exhibits standard mid-century US manufacturing: a flat un-merrowed "Cut Edge" and the classic white return thread ("snowy back") on the reverse.
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Collection Condition: The embroidery on the front is flawless with incredibly bright colors. The back bears paper and glue residue from an old collector's display board, adding a neat layer of provenance without affecting its display value.
Technical Specs:
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Item: Shoulder Sleeve Insignia (SSI) / Cloth Patch
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Unit: 25th Infantry Division ("Tropic Lightning")
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Era: WWII – 1960s (Vietnam War Era)
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Construction: Fully Embroidered, Cut Edge, Snowy Back
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Condition: Excellent front (Mounting residue on the reverse)
